Environmental Sustainability Regulations in Connecticut

1. What are the key environmental sustainability regulations that businesses need to comply with in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, businesses need to comply with a variety of key environmental sustainability regulations to ensure they are operating in an environmentally responsible manner. Some of the key regulations that businesses must adhere to in the state include:

1. The Connecticut Environmental Protection Act (CEPA): This act establishes the legal framework for environmental protection in the state and requires businesses to take measures to prevent pollution and protect natural resources.

2. The Connecticut Clean Water Act: Businesses must comply with regulations aimed at protecting the quality of the state’s water resources, including restrictions on discharges into water bodies and requirements for wastewater treatment.

3. The Connecticut Recycling Laws: Businesses are required to comply with recycling laws that mandate the separation and recycling of certain materials, such as paper, cardboard, and glass.

4. The Connecticut Air Pollution Control Laws: Businesses must adhere to regulations aimed at controlling air pollution, including limits on emissions of certain pollutants and requirements for obtaining air permits.

Compliance with these and other environmental sustainability regulations in Connecticut is essential for businesses to minimize their environmental impact, protect natural resources, and maintain a sustainable operation. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines, penalties, and other legal consequences.

2. How does Connecticut regulate emissions and air quality to promote environmental sustainability?

Connecticut regulates emissions and air quality to promote environmental sustainability through a combination of state laws, regulations, and programs. Some key ways in which the state tackles this issue include:

1. Emission Standards: Connecticut has established stringent emission standards for various sources such as power plants, vehicles, and industrial facilities. These standards aim to limit the amount of pollutants released into the air, thus reducing the overall impact on air quality and public health.

2. Renewable Energy Mandates: The state has set renewable energy mandates requiring a certain percentage of electricity to come from renewable sources like wind, solar, and hydroelectric power. This helps to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and decrease greenhouse gas emissions.

3. Clean Energy Incentives: Connecticut offers incentives and rebates for residents and businesses to invest in clean energy technologies such as solar panels and energy-efficient appliances. These initiatives help to decrease energy consumption and promote sustainable practices.

4. Air Quality Monitoring: The state regularly monitors air quality levels and publishes data on pollutants like ozone, particulate matter, and carbon monoxide. This information helps to track progress, identify areas of concern, and inform future regulatory decisions.

Overall, Connecticut’s comprehensive approach to regulating emissions and air quality demonstrates its commitment to environmental sustainability and protecting the health and well-being of its residents.

3. What are the state regulations on water conservation and quality in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, there are several state regulations in place to address water conservation and quality. These regulations aim to protect the state’s water resources and ensure sustainable water usage practices.

1. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) is responsible for overseeing water quality regulations in the state. They enforce the Connecticut Water Quality Standards which set criteria to protect water bodies from pollution and ensure they support designated uses such as drinking water supply, recreation, and aquatic life.

2. The state also has regulations governing water conservation efforts. Connecticut has a Water Conservation and Management Policy Act which requires public water suppliers to develop water conservation plans to reduce water usage and promote efficient water management practices.

3. Additionally, there are regulations related to stormwater management to prevent pollution and runoff into water bodies. The General Permit for the Discharge of Stormwater from Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4) sets requirements for municipalities to manage stormwater runoff effectively.

In conclusion, Connecticut has established regulations on water conservation and quality to safeguard the state’s water resources and ensure sustainable management practices. It is essential for individuals, businesses, and municipalities to comply with these regulations to protect and preserve the water environment for current and future generations.

4. How does Connecticut approach the management and disposal of hazardous waste?

Connecticut has a comprehensive regulatory framework in place to manage and dispose of hazardous waste to protect human health and the environment. The state follows both federal regulations set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and state-specific regulations outlined in the Connecticut Hazardous Waste Management Regulations.

1. Hazardous waste generators in Connecticut are required to obtain an EPA Identification Number and must classify their waste according to federal and state guidelines. They must also adhere to strict record-keeping and reporting requirements.

2. The state has established a permitting program for hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facilities to ensure that these operations meet stringent environmental standards. Facilities must obtain permits from the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and comply with regulations related to facility design, operation, monitoring, closure, and post-closure care.

3. Connecticut also regulates the transportation of hazardous waste within the state to prevent spills and accidents that could harm public health and the environment. Transporters must comply with specific requirements for labeling, packaging, manifesting, and reporting related to the transportation of hazardous waste.

4. In addition to regulatory oversight, Connecticut encourages pollution prevention and waste minimization efforts to reduce the generation of hazardous waste at the source. The state offers technical assistance, grants, and incentives to businesses and industries to adopt cleaner production practices and implement waste reduction measures.

Overall, Connecticut takes a proactive approach to the management and disposal of hazardous waste by enforcing strict regulations, promoting waste reduction initiatives, and ensuring compliance with federal and state requirements to safeguard the environment and public health.

5. What are the requirements for businesses to report and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, businesses are required to report and reduce greenhouse gas emissions under the state’s Mandatory Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions program. The requirements for businesses include:

1. Annual Reporting: Businesses that emit over 25,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent per year are required to report their emissions annually to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).

2. Emission Reduction Goals: Businesses must also set emission reduction targets and develop plans to achieve these goals.

3. Compliance Instruments: Companies can use compliance instruments such as Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) or carbon offsets to meet their reduction requirements.

4. Monitoring and Verification: Businesses need to monitor and verify their emissions data to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulations.

5. Penalties for Non-Compliance: Failure to meet reporting or reduction targets can result in penalties for businesses, including fines and potential legal actions.

Overall, Connecticut’s regulations aim to track and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from businesses to help combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability within the state.

6. How does Connecticut promote renewable energy and energy efficiency through regulations?

Connecticut promotes renewable energy and energy efficiency through a combination of regulations and policies aimed at transitioning to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future. Some of the key ways in which the state encourages these initiatives include:

1. Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS): Connecticut has set Renewable Portfolio Standards requiring electricity suppliers to source a certain percentage of their energy from renewable sources such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power. These standards help incentivize the development and deployment of renewable energy projects in the state.

2. Energy Efficiency Programs: Connecticut has implemented various energy efficiency programs to help residents and businesses reduce their energy consumption and lower their carbon footprint. These programs offer incentives, rebates, and technical assistance to encourage the adoption of energy-efficient technologies and practices.

3. Green Bank Financing: The Connecticut Green Bank provides financing and other support for renewable energy projects, energy efficiency upgrades, and other sustainable initiatives. By leveraging public and private funds, the Green Bank helps facilitate investments in clean energy infrastructure in the state.

4. Net Metering: Connecticut allows for net metering, which enables renewable energy system owners to receive credit for the excess electricity they generate and feed back into the grid. This encourages the installation of solar panels and other distributed energy resources by making them more economically viable.

5. Building Codes and Standards: Connecticut has adopted building energy codes and standards designed to promote energy-efficient construction and renovation practices. By requiring new buildings to meet certain energy performance criteria, the state helps reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions over the long term.

Overall, Connecticut’s regulatory framework plays a crucial role in promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency by creating market incentives, providing financial support, and setting goals for a more sustainable energy future. By continuing to strengthen and expand these regulations, the state can further accelerate its transition towards a cleaner and more resilient energy system.

7. What are the regulations governing land use and development to support environmental sustainability in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, the regulations governing land use and development to support environmental sustainability are primarily governed by the Connecticut Environmental Policy Act (CEPA). CEPA requires state agencies to consider the environmental impacts of their actions, including land use and development projects, and to promote measures that minimize harm to the environment. Additionally, the Connecticut General Statutes address various aspects of land use and development to support environmental sustainability through statutes such as the Coastal Management Act and the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Act. Local zoning regulations also play a crucial role in guiding land use and development to align with environmental sustainability goals.

Specific regulations include:
1. Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Act: Regulates activities in and around wetlands and watercourses to protect water quality and wildlife habitats.
2. Coastal Management Act: Focuses on protecting and enhancing the coastal resources of the state, including shoreline stabilization and floodplain management.
3. Connecticut Stormwater Quality Manual: Provides guidelines for stormwater management practices to reduce pollution and protect water quality.
4. Connecticut Endangered Species Act: Protects endangered and threatened species and their habitats through land use planning and development restrictions.
5. Connecticut Green Building Standards: Encourage sustainable building practices to reduce energy consumption and environmental impacts.
6. Local Zoning Regulations: Determine land use practices such as density, setbacks, and permitted land uses to promote environmental sustainability at the community level.

Overall, Connecticut has a robust regulatory framework in place to ensure that land use and development activities align with environmental sustainability principles and protect the state’s natural resources for future generations.

8. What are the penalties for non-compliance with environmental sustainability regulations in Connecticut?

Non-compliance with environmental sustainability regulations in Connecticut can result in various penalties and consequences. Some of the potential repercussions for businesses or individuals failing to adhere to these regulations may include:

1. Fines: Companies found to be in violation of environmental sustainability regulations may face fines imposed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). The amount of the fine can vary based on the severity of the violation and the impact on the environment.

2. Legal action: Non-compliance with regulations may lead to legal action being taken against the offending party. This could involve lawsuits, injunctions, or other legal measures to address the violation and enforce compliance.

3. Permit revocation: In serious cases of non-compliance, the DEEP may revoke or suspend permits issued to businesses or individuals for activities that impact the environment. This could halt operations until the necessary corrective actions are taken to come into compliance with regulations.

4. Remediation costs: Companies found to be in violation of environmental regulations may be required to cover the costs of remediation activities to clean up any damage caused by their non-compliant actions. This can be a costly consequence of failing to adhere to sustainability regulations.

Overall, the penalties for non-compliance with environmental sustainability regulations in Connecticut are designed to deter violations and ensure that businesses and individuals take the necessary steps to protect the environment and comply with applicable laws. It is crucial for all entities to understand and follow these regulations to avoid facing significant penalties.

9. How does Connecticut support and regulate recycling and waste management programs?

Connecticut supports and regulates recycling and waste management programs through a combination of legislative measures and regulatory frameworks.

1. Mandatory recycling laws: Connecticut has laws in place that require certain materials, such as bottles, cans, and cardboard, to be recycled. These laws help promote recycling and reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.

2. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs: Connecticut has implemented EPR programs for various products, such as electronic waste and paint. These programs require manufacturers to take responsibility for the end-of-life management of their products, including recycling and proper disposal.

3. Waste diversion goals: The state has set ambitious waste diversion goals to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. These goals aim to promote recycling, composting, and other waste reduction strategies.

4. Waste bans: Connecticut has banned certain materials from being disposed of in landfills, such as yard waste and clean wood. These bans encourage proper disposal and recycling of these materials.

5. Recycling infrastructure support: The state provides support for recycling infrastructure, such as recycling centers and programs, to make recycling more convenient and accessible for residents and businesses.

Overall, Connecticut’s approach to supporting and regulating recycling and waste management programs demonstrates a commitment to environmental sustainability and waste reduction.

10. What are the regulations surrounding the protection of wildlife and natural habitats in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, there are several regulations in place to protect wildlife and natural habitats. These regulations are primarily governed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and focus on conserving biodiversity and maintaining the ecological balance of the state. Some key regulations include:

1. Endangered Species Protection: Connecticut has laws in place to protect endangered and threatened species, such as the Endangered Species Act and the Connecticut Endangered Species Act. These laws prohibit the taking, possession, transportation, or sale of endangered species or their parts without proper authorization.

2. Habitat Protection: The state has designated certain areas as critical habitats for various species. These areas are legally protected from development and other activities that could harm the natural habitat.

3. Wetlands Protection: Connecticut has strict regulations for the protection of wetlands, which are vital for wildlife and play a crucial role in flood control and water purification. Activities that could impact wetlands require permits and mitigation measures to protect these sensitive ecosystems.

4. Hunting and Fishing Regulations: The state has specific regulations for hunting and fishing to ensure sustainable management of wildlife populations. These regulations include licensing requirements, season limits, and restrictions on certain hunting methods to prevent overexploitation of wildlife resources.

5. Pollution Control: Connecticut has regulations in place to control pollution and ensure water and air quality standards are maintained to protect wildlife and their habitats from contamination.

Overall, Connecticut’s regulations surrounding the protection of wildlife and natural habitats are aimed at maintaining the state’s biodiversity and ecological health for future generations. It is important for individuals and organizations to comply with these regulations to conserve the rich natural heritage of the state.

11. How does Connecticut address environmental justice concerns in its sustainability regulations?

Connecticut addresses environmental justice concerns in its sustainability regulations through several key measures:

1. Environmental Equity Executive Order: In 2021, Governor Ned Lamont signed an executive order focused on environmental justice, directing state agencies to consider equity in decision-making processes related to environmental issues.

2. Environmental Justice Communities: The state has identified environmental justice communities based on factors such as income level, race, and language. These communities are given special consideration in permitting processes for new facilities to prevent disproportionate environmental burdens.

3. Community Engagement: Connecticut actively engages with environmental justice communities through public meetings, workshops, and outreach efforts to ensure that their concerns are heard and incorporated into decision-making.

4. Environmental Justice Impact Assessment: The state requires an environmental justice impact assessment for all projects that may have a significant impact on these communities, ensuring that potential environmental risks are thoroughly evaluated.

5. Legislation: Connecticut has also enacted legislation such as the Environmental Justice Act to further address disparities in environmental quality and access to resources in marginalized communities.

Overall, Connecticut takes a comprehensive approach to addressing environmental justice concerns in its sustainability regulations by prioritizing equity, community engagement, impact assessments, and legislative measures.

12. What are the regulations for preventing water pollution and maintaining water quality in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, there are several key regulations in place to prevent water pollution and maintain water quality. These regulations are crucial in protecting the state’s water resources and ensuring the health and safety of its residents and ecosystems. Some of the main regulations for preventing water pollution and maintaining water quality in Connecticut include:

1. The Connecticut Clean Water Act: This legislation governs the discharge of pollutants into water bodies and sets standards for water quality to protect aquatic life and public health.

2. Stormwater Management Regulations: These regulations require the implementation of stormwater management practices to control runoff from construction sites, industrial facilities, and urban areas to prevent pollutants from entering waterways.

3. Water Quality Standards: Connecticut has established water quality standards that set limits on pollutants such as nutrients, bacteria, and chemicals in surface waters to ensure they meet designated uses like fishing, swimming, and drinking water supply.

4. Discharge Permits: Industries, wastewater treatment plants, and other facilities that discharge pollutants into water bodies must obtain permits that outline specific limits and monitoring requirements to protect water quality.

5. Nonpoint Source Pollution Control Programs: Connecticut implements programs to address nonpoint source pollution from sources like agriculture, urban runoff, and septic systems through best management practices and pollution prevention measures.

Overall, these regulations play a critical role in safeguarding water quality in Connecticut and promoting sustainable water management practices to protect the state’s valuable water resources for current and future generations.

13. How does Connecticut regulate the use of pesticides and other chemicals to protect the environment?

Connecticut regulates the use of pesticides and other chemicals to protect the environment through several key mechanisms:

1. Pesticide Control Program: The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) implements and enforces regulations related to the use of pesticides. This program oversees the licensing and certification of pesticide applicators, conducts inspections to ensure compliance with regulations, and responds to complaints related to pesticide use.

2. Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Connecticut promotes the use of IPM strategies to minimize the use of pesticides and prioritize non-chemical pest control methods. IPM emphasizes prevention, monitoring, and control practices that are least harmful to the environment and public health.

3. Regulations and Restrictions: Connecticut has specific regulations and restrictions in place for the use of certain pesticides and chemicals, such as banning the use of certain highly toxic substances or requiring special permits for their application in sensitive areas like water bodies or wetlands.

4. Public Outreach and Education: The state conducts outreach and education initiatives to raise awareness about the potential environmental and health risks associated with pesticide use, as well as to promote alternative, more sustainable pest management practices among businesses and individuals.

Overall, Connecticut’s regulatory framework aims to strike a balance between protecting environmental quality and public health while allowing for the responsible use of pesticides and chemicals when necessary.

14. What are the regulations for promoting sustainable agriculture and food production in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, there are several regulations in place to promote sustainable agriculture and food production in the state. These regulations aim to support environmentally friendly practices, protect natural resources, and ensure the long-term viability of the agricultural sector. Some key regulations include:

1. The Connecticut Farmland Preservation Program, which helps to protect agricultural land from development and promote sustainable farming practices.
2. The Connecticut Farm Transition Grant Program, which provides financial assistance to farmers looking to transition their operations to more sustainable practices.
3. The Connecticut Sustainable Agriculture Council, which promotes sustainable agriculture through education, outreach, and policy advocacy.
4. The Connecticut Farm-to-School Program, which encourages schools to source food from local, sustainable farms.
5. The Connecticut Invasive Plant Regulations, which help to prevent the spread of invasive species that can harm agricultural ecosystems.

Overall, these regulations play a crucial role in promoting sustainable agriculture and food production in Connecticut, ensuring that the state’s agricultural sector remains environmentally sound and economically viable for years to come.

15. How does Connecticut promote green building and sustainable construction practices through regulations?

Connecticut promotes green building and sustainable construction practices through regulations in several ways:

1. Building Codes: Connecticut has adopted the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and International Green Construction Code (IgCC) as part of its state building energy code. These codes require new construction and major renovations to meet certain energy efficiency and sustainability standards.

2. Incentive Programs: The state offers various incentive programs to encourage green building practices, such as financial incentives, tax credits, and grants for projects that meet certain green building criteria or LEED certification.

3. Energy Performance Standards: Connecticut has set energy performance standards for state-owned buildings, requiring them to meet specific energy efficiency requirements. These standards serve as a model for promoting energy-efficient building practices in the private sector as well.

4. Green Building Certification: The state encourages developers to achieve green building certification, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or ENERGY STAR, by offering expedited permitting processes or other benefits for certified projects.

Overall, Connecticut’s regulatory framework prioritizes environmental sustainability in the construction industry by setting standards, providing incentives, and promoting green building practices to reduce energy consumption, minimize waste, and lower carbon emissions in the built environment.

16. What are the requirements for businesses to develop and implement environmental sustainability plans in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, businesses are required to comply with various environmental sustainability regulations to develop and implement environmental sustainability plans. Some key requirements include:

1. Environmental Compliance: Businesses must ensure compliance with state and federal environmental regulations related to air quality, water quality, waste management, and hazardous materials handling.

2. Reporting and Record-Keeping: Businesses are typically required to report their environmental impact through various means, such as annual emissions reports or waste reduction goals. Keeping accurate records of environmental performance is essential.

3. Energy Efficiency: Businesses are encouraged to improve energy efficiency by implementing energy-saving practices, investing in renewable energy sources, and tracking energy consumption.

4. Waste Reduction and Recycling: Businesses are often required to have waste reduction and recycling programs in place to minimize the amount of waste sent to landfills and promote sustainable practices.

5. Sustainability Planning: Businesses may need to develop comprehensive sustainability plans that outline specific goals, strategies, and timelines for reducing their environmental footprint and improving overall sustainability.

6. Environmental Audits: Some businesses may be required to conduct regular environmental audits to assess their compliance with regulations and identify opportunities for improvement.

Overall, businesses in Connecticut must prioritize environmental sustainability to mitigate their impact on the environment and contribute to a more sustainable future for the state and beyond.

17. How does Connecticut regulate transportation and promote sustainable mobility options?

Connecticut has implemented a variety of regulations and initiatives to regulate transportation and promote sustainable mobility options in the state.

1. The state has set emissions standards for vehicles to reduce air pollution and environmental impact.
2. Connecticut incentivizes the use of electric vehicles through rebates and tax credits.
3. The Department of Transportation has promoted the development of public transportation systems, such as buses and trains, to reduce reliance on individual cars.
4. The state encourages active transportation modes like walking and cycling through the construction of bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
5. Connecticut has also invested in the improvement of infrastructure for electric vehicle charging stations to support the transition to electric transportation.
6. The state has set goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector and has implemented policies to achieve these targets.

By combining regulatory measures, incentives, infrastructure development, and long-term planning, Connecticut aims to create a more sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation system for its residents.

18. What are the regulations for promoting and protecting biodiversity in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, there are several key regulations in place to promote and protect biodiversity within the state:

1. The Connecticut Endangered Species Act (CESA) protects endangered and threatened species in the state by prohibiting their take or possession. This act aims to conserve and recover these species and their habitats.

2. The Connecticut Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Act (IWWA) regulates activities within wetlands and watercourses to ensure the protection of critical habitats for many plants and animals.

3. The Connecticut Coastal Management Act (CCMA) aims to protect and manage the state’s coastal resources, including wetlands, dunes, and estuaries, which are important habitats for a variety of species.

4. The Connecticut Forest Practices Act (CFPA) sets guidelines for the sustainable management of forests to maintain biodiversity and prevent habitat fragmentation.

5. The Connecticut Environmental Policy Act (CEPA) requires state agencies to consider the environmental impacts of their actions, including impacts on biodiversity, before making decisions.

Overall, these regulations work together to promote biodiversity conservation and ensure the protection of Connecticut’s natural ecosystems and wildlife.

19. How does Connecticut regulate and promote climate change mitigation and adaptation measures?

Connecticut has been at the forefront of implementing various regulations and initiatives to mitigate and adapt to climate change.
1. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Goals: The state has set aggressive greenhouse gas reduction targets, aiming to reduce emissions to 45% below 2001 levels by 2030 and at least 80% by 2050.
2. Renewable Portfolio Standard: Connecticut requires a certain percentage of electricity to be generated from renewable sources, promoting the transition to cleaner energy and reducing emissions.
3. Connecticut Green Bank: The state established the Green Bank to accelerate the deployment of clean energy projects by providing financing options and incentives for residential, commercial, and municipal projects.
4. Climate Action Plan: Connecticut has developed a comprehensive Climate Action Plan outlining strategies and actions to reduce emissions, improve resilience, and adapt to climate change impacts.
5. Resilience and Adaptation Strategies: The state has implemented measures to enhance resilience to climate change impacts, such as coastal protections, infrastructure upgrades, and floodplain management.
6. Transportation and Land Use Policies: Connecticut promotes sustainable transportation options and smart growth initiatives to reduce emissions from the transportation sector and create more resilient communities.
Overall, Connecticut’s regulatory framework and promotion efforts for climate change mitigation and adaptation demonstrate a commitment to addressing the challenges of a changing climate and transitioning to a more sustainable future.

20. What resources are available to help businesses and individuals navigate and comply with environmental sustainability regulations in Connecticut?

Businesses and individuals in Connecticut have several resources available to help them navigate and comply with environmental sustainability regulations in the state. Some of these resources include:

1. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP): DEEP provides guidance and information on environmental regulations, compliance requirements, and sustainable practices.

2. Environmental compliance assistance centers: These centers offer training, technical assistance, and resources to help businesses understand and comply with environmental regulations.

3. Sustainable CT: This program helps municipalities and organizations implement sustainability practices and comply with state regulations through certification, funding opportunities, and resources.

4. Nonprofit organizations: There are several nonprofit organizations in Connecticut that focus on environmental sustainability and provide support, resources, and training to businesses and individuals.

5. Consultation services: Many consulting firms specialize in environmental sustainability and can help businesses navigate regulations, develop compliance strategies, and implement sustainable practices.

By utilizing these resources, businesses and individuals can ensure they are meeting their environmental obligations while working towards a more sustainable future in Connecticut.